Exploring the Real-World of ‘Jurassic Park’ – Filming Locations
Imagine, for a moment, you’re on a lush, untouched island, the roars of unseen dinosaurs echoing through the mist. You’re not just a visitor; you are part of a thrilling adventure that transcends time. This isn’t the opening scene of a new ‘Jurassic Park’ movie. It’s an invitation to step into the real-world locales that brought the iconic film to life. For fans of the ‘Jurassic Park’ series and travel enthusiasts, embarking on a journey to these filming locations offers a unique blend of nostalgia, adventure, and natural beauty.
Kualoa Ranch, Oahu, Hawaii
Scenes: Many scenes from ‘Jurassic World’ and ‘Jurassic Park’ were filmed here, including those featuring the Gyrosphere Valley and the Indominus Rex enclosure.
Location: 21.5213° N, 157.8374° W
Interesting Fact: Kualoa Ranch is not just famous for ‘Jurassic Park’; it has been a filming location for numerous other movies and TV shows, including ‘Lost’ and ‘Hawaii Five-0.’
Manawaiopuna Falls, Kauai, Hawaii
Scenes: The iconic helicopter landing scene in the original ‘Jurassic Park.’
Location: 22.0505° N, 159.4977° W
Interesting Fact: Known as “Jurassic Falls,” this waterfall was relatively unknown before the movie’s release. Access is now highly sought after but is strictly controlled, with visits possible only by helicopter tours.
Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii
Scenes: The coastline served as the backdrop for the arrival scenes to Isla Nublar.
Location: 22.1738° N, 159.6393° W
Interesting Fact: The Na Pali Coast’s rugged terrain is inaccessible by vehicle, making it one of the most pristine, untouched places on Earth, perfectly fitting the ‘Jurassic Park’ theme.
Redwoods National and State Parks, California
Scenes: Various forest scenes from ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park.’
Location: 41.2132° N, 124.0046° W
Interesting Fact: Some of the redwoods in these parks are over 2,000 years old, creating a natural setting that genuinely feels prehistoric.
Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, California
Scenes: The location for the scene where the characters in ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park’ are attacked by the small, vicious Compsognathus.
Location: 41.4031° N, 124.0655° W
Interesting Fact: Fern Canyon is so named because its 50-foot high walls are covered in lush ferns, some species of which are ancient and have been around since the age of the dinosaurs.
Olokele Valley, Kauai, Hawaii
Scenes: The site where the Gallimimus stampede was filmed in ‘Jurassic Park.’
Location: 21.9866° N, 159.6312° W
Interesting Fact: The valley is part of a private property and working ranch, making it less accessible to the public, which has helped preserve its natural beauty.
Blue Hole, Kauai, Hawaii
Scenes: The waterfall where characters in ‘Jurassic Park’ find the dinosaur eggs.
Location: 22.0833° N, 159.4133° W
Interesting Fact: The Blue Hole is part of the Waialeale Crater, known as one of the wettest spots on Earth, contributing to its lush vegetation.
Jurassic Kahili Ranch, Kauai, Hawaii
Scenes: Various scenes in ‘Jurassic World.’
Location: 22.0964° N, 159.4022° W
Interesting Fact: The ranch is still a working cattle ranch, and its picturesque landscape has made it a popular filming location for movies seeking tropical and verdant backdrops.
Haleakalā National Park, Maui, Hawaii
Scenes: The location was used for aerial shots in ‘Jurassic Park III’ to depict Isla Sorna.
Location: 20.7097° N, 156.2535° W
Interesting Fact: Haleakalā Crater is a massive shield volcano that forms more than 75% of the Maui island, offering landscapes so alien that it easily doubles for a dinosaur-inhabited island.
Mt. Victoria, Wellington, New Zealand
Scenes: Used in ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ for scenes depicting the dinosaurs’ new sanctuary.
Location: 41.2969° S, 174.7943° E
Interesting Fact: Mt. Victoria offers panoramic views of Wellington and its harbor, and it’s also a popular location for ‘Lord of the Rings’ tours, making it a hit among movie buffs.
